Historic opera house in Staples is up for auction

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The Historic Batcher Block Opera House in Staples will be sold via a sealed bid auction in September.

Maas Companies, an auction company specializing in the selling of real estate and special assets will conduct the sale. Bids can be submitted until Tuesday, September 20 at 5:00 PM CDT at which time a winning bid may be awarded, negotiated or the top bidders may continue to a limited live auction.

Built in the early 1900s, the 30,500 Sq. Ft. 3-Story Historic Brick Building was listed on the

National Register of Historic Places in 2004. The National Register documents states, “it may be

one of the best preserved rural opera houses in Minnesota.” The theatre portion of the building

contains original Fresco painted walls, stage and balcony seating and touts performers such as

Mickey Rooney and Louie Anderson with. In addition to the arts, the building is designed for

multi-use with a antique mall on the main floor and multiple private rooms on the 2nd and 3rd

floors ideal for offices, sleeping rooms or rental spaces, plus a large basement for storage.

The building is located in the town of Staples, an area thriving in recent years. According to the

City of Staples, “Staples is the only community in the area with upward trends in both

establishments and employees. We want that to continue and will utilize any tools

available to us in order to attract new businesses to our area.”

Local owner Colleen Donley, states, „The building will be sold with or without the

Historic Designation, Making it possible to work with or without Special Funding

sources depending upon the use of the space. The building has a stunning theatre and

also offers opportunities for Retail Space, Room Rentals, Condos, or Offices. The

building possibilities are endless and city monies may be available for qualified

renovations.” Donley and her twin brother Chris Frost purchased the building in 2003

but recent health challenges are driving their decision to sell the building.

Potential buyers are encouraged to inspect the property during the below noted times; or by

private appointment.

Monday, August 29 noon – 5 p.m.

Tuesday, September 6 noon – 5 p.m.

Monday, September 19 noon – 5 p.m.

Details of the sale are available at the auction website, maascompanies.com or by contacting the

auction company directly at (507) 285-1444 as well as You Tube, Batcher Block Opera House

Video Tour.

Tags: regional news, news, updates, history, opera